constituent 1 of 2

Definition of constituentnext

constituent

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constituent distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

How are the words component and constituent related?

Both component and constituent may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character.

the components of a stereo system

When is it sensible to use element instead of constituent?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is ingredient a more appropriate choice than constituent?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constituent
Noun
Accountability, not just identity, matters Some experts say representation based on identity alone doesn't make a difference when serving constituents. Jay Stahl, USA Today, 16 June 2026 And just like opponents say their constituents are opposed, supporters say voters in their district favor the plan, especially after it’s explained by a proponent. Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 15 June 2026
Adjective
While many of Swalwell’s staffers have already quit, remaining staffers not involved in constituent services would lose their jobs and receive no severance pay. Ana Ceballos, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026 According to Hensley, the bill was prompted by a constituent request and evolved during the legislative process. Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • Elye Wahi remains an important member of the Ivory Coast national team.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 19 June 2026
  • On Wednesday, Air Force officials identified the eight-member crew on board, which included flight test engineers, pilots, two Boeing contractors and multiple members of the 419th Flight Test Squadron.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • In a renowned 2006 review published in Educational Research Review, researchers traced how working memory evolved from a simple storage system into a more dynamic, multi-component process.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026
  • Much of Lofton’s research looks at developing a multi-level, multi-component food system intervention to address food insecurity inequities amongst Black American residents living in predominantly Black communities.
    Zareen Syed, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Warmer waters and temperatures One of the ingredients of El Niño is triggered when the trade winds in the Pacific Ocean — winds that reliably blow from east to west — weaken.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 15 June 2026
  • The S'mores Company creates fun and easy s'mores supplies -- stainless steel telescoping roasting sticks with glow-in-the-dark designs, portable soy wax campfires and cooler caddies with organizer trays that keep ingredients organized.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 June 2026
Adjective
  • In most other competitions, clubs establish individual relationships with manufacturers.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 16 June 2026
  • There are individual media rooms and, of course, a stage for the news conferences that will take place after the team trains at Swope Soccer Village.
    Pete Grathoff June 14, Kansas City Star, 15 June 2026
Noun
  • There's so many elements to that.
    Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026
  • Historic elements of the former hotel remain today, including a grand piano and white stone, spiral staircase that rises up to the second-floor banquet rooms.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 June 2026
Noun
  • There are plenty of other factors that go into fostering belief in a team.
    Rustin Dodd, New York Times, 17 June 2026
  • The testing looked at form factors, creatine per serving, percent creatine, creatinine levels and heavy metals.
    Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

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